Brighton & Hove Albion Star Enock Mwepu has announced that he is being forced to retire from football with immediate effect, aged just 24.
The Zambian International joined the Seagulls in 2021 from RB Salzburg and has gone on to make 27 appearances for the Club, notably scoring against Arsenal at the Emirates in a 2-1 victory last campaign.
Unfortunately for Mwepu, he is being forced to retire due to a serious hereditary heart condition. The player felt unwell on a flight to meet with the Zambian National Team during the recent international break before being hospitalized as a result. He then returned to England and underwent further tests with Brighton’s medical staff.
Mwepu announced his decision this morning in a truly heartbreaking statement.
“A boy from a small Zambian township called Chambishi has some news to share,” said Mwepu in a personal statement he released. “He stood strong to follow his dream of playing football at the highest level, and by the grace of God he lived his dream by reaching the Premier League. Some dreams however come to an end, so it is with sadness that I announce the need to hang up my boots because of the medical advice I have received.
“This is however not the end of my involvement with football, I plan to stay involved in some capacity. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that supported me in my football journey, including my wife and family, my agent 12MAN, the Zambian FA, all my previous clubs, team-mates and coaches, and specially everyone at Brighton & Hove Albion.”
The news comes as a real shock to the football world who will no longer be able to witness what seemed like it would be a truly wonderful career in England and beyond for Mwepu.
Brighton also released a statement on their website showing their support for Mwepu and expressing their sadness for the situation.
“We are all absolutely devastated for Enock. He and his family have had a traumatic few weeks and while we are just thankful he has come through that period, he has seen such a promising career cut short at such a young age. As a club we will give him all the love, help and support we possibly can to make a full recovery, and then as he decides on the next steps in his life,” said Brighton chairman Tony Bloom.
Seagulls coach Roberto De Zerbi also had his say: “I am so sorry for Enock. Before I arrived I looked at all the squad, and he was a player I was so excited and looking forward to working with. We will do everything we can to help him.”
A sad day for football especially in Africa, as one of the continent’s brightest stars is unfortunately having his career cut short.